REGINA — There were plenty of reasons to celebrate at Music for the Mind on May 29, but the most important number of the night wasn't on a raffle ticket, a stage backdrop or a fundraising thermometer.
It was the $50,000 the community brought together to help youth across Saskatchewan.
That's how much was raised during YMCA Regina's third annual Music for the Mind fundraiser at the Conexus Arts Centre, with proceeds supporting youth mental health and mentorship programming in Regina, Moose Jaw and surrounding communities.
Behind that number are young people who will find a mentor when they need guidance, a safe space when they feel isolated and a community that believes in their potential.
For YMCA Regina, that's what the evening was really about.
"Our mission is simple, but it's powerful," YMCA Regina CEO Steve Compton told supporters. "Our charity inspires potential, ultimately helping people thrive, lead and give back to their community."
The event brought together community leaders, volunteers, sponsors, front-line workers and advocates for an evening that highlighted the growing importance of youth mental health supports across Saskatchewan.
As guests gathered for dinner and entertainment, they also heard powerful stories about the challenges facing young people and the life-changing impact that can come from meaningful relationships and community support.
"We try to create spaces where people feel connected, supported and belong," Compton said.
"We did find as we emerged from the pandemic that mental health tends to be one of the greatest things facing our communities today, especially for young people."
The evening opened with a performance by Regina singer-songwriter Aria Swanson before shifting its focus toward the people at the heart of the YMCA's work.
A panel discussion moderated by mental health wellness facilitator Janelle Jansen featured YMCA staff, community partners and representatives from STR8UP, who shared stories of resilience, mentorship and transformation.
Their message was clear: sometimes one trusted adult, one supportive conversation or one positive connection can change the course of a young person's life.
"These stories will remind you that help at that right moment, at that hardest time, is the opportunity for organizations like ours," Compton said.
Guests were also able to hear directly from youth involved in YMCA mentorship programs through stories accessed using QR codes placed on event centrepieces throughout the room.
Those personal accounts provided a powerful reminder that behind every program statistic is a real young person navigating real challenges.
Jill Lesuk, director of HOMEBASE Moose Jaw, said the event showcased exactly what makes the YMCA's work so important.
"Music for the Mind was a wonderful celebration of community, connection and the impact of youth mental wellness programs in Moose Jaw and Regina," Lesuk said.
"The evening brought together supporters, partners, community leaders and advocates who share a commitment to helping young people thrive."
The event balanced serious conversations with moments of fun and celebration.
Guests participated in a lively "Name That Tune" fundraiser, bid on raffle packages and connected with community members who share a passion for helping young people succeed.
But throughout the evening, the focus remained on ensuring youth have access to the support they need regardless of their circumstances.
"We believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to belong, to be appreciated, to grow and to access supports regardless of their financial circumstance and life situation," Compton said.
That belief has guided YMCA Regina's work for generations.
Today, the organization's impact extends far beyond gyms, pools and recreation programs. Through initiatives in youth mentorship, mental wellness, leadership development, housing support and community outreach, the YMCA works to strengthen communities across southern Saskatchewan and help young people build confidence, resilience and lasting connections.
Lesuk said the success of Music for the Mind demonstrates what can happen when a community comes together around a shared purpose.
"Thanks to the incredible generosity of everyone who attended, sponsored, donated and volunteered, Music for the Mind raised $50,000 to support youth programming in Moose Jaw and Regina," she said.
"This outstanding result will help ensure more young people have access to mentorship, meaningful connections and opportunities to reach their full potential."
For organizers, the fundraiser was never just about dollars raised.
It was about creating opportunities for young people who may be struggling, feeling disconnected or searching for someone who believes in them.
As the evening came to a close, supporters left knowing their contributions would help provide exactly that.
And for Compton, that impact remains at the centre of everything the YMCA does.
"That's why so much of our work focuses on building confidence, relationships, belonging and resiliency within our community," he said. "Supporters like you continue to invest in programs and services to strengthen and improve our communities."
